Last week’s economic releases included reports on new and pending home sales, S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and regularly scheduled weekly reporting on mortgage rates and weekly jobless claims. Readings on consumer sentiment and confidence were also released.
New and Pending Home Sales Lower as Peak Sales Season Winds Down
August readings for new and pending home sales were lower than for July; analysts said that slim supplies of available homes and rising home prices contributed to slower home sales. Peak home sales typically occur during spring and summer. Homebuyers with school-aged children prefer to be settled into a new home when school starts in August and September.
According to the Commerce Department, new home sales achieved their second highest reading since the Great Recession. Although lower than July’s reading, August sales of new homes reached 609,000 on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. Analysts expected a reading of 600,000 new home sales based on July’s reading of 659.000 new homes sold. August’s reading was 20.60 percent higher year-over-year. High demand for homes appears to be kicking home builders into higher gear as they strive to ease slim inventories of available homes.
The impact of short inventories of available homes was reflected in August’s reading for pending home sales. Home sales awaiting closing fell in August from July’s reading of +1.20 percent in July to 2.40 percent in August. The National Association of Realtors® said that home sales are declining due to very limited inventories of available homes. Rapidly rising home prices and strict mortgage qualification requirements also contributed to slipping sales. After home buyers sign a purchase contract, they are at the mercy of changing mortgage rates their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Pending home sales supply an indication of future closings and mortgage loans.
According to the S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for July, home price growth dipped from June’s seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 percent to 5.00 percent. Slim inventories of homes for sale and high demand were again cited as primary reasons for slower home price growth. While demand is high, slim supplies of available homes can cause would-be buyers to postpone their home search until more homes are on the market.
Mortgage Rates Fall, New Jobless Claims Rise
Mortgage rates fell across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly survey of rates. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell six basis points to 3.42 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was four basis points lower at 2.72 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages had an average rate of 1.81 percent, which was one basis point lower than the previous week’s reading Discount points were also lower and averaged 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.
New jobless claims rose last week to 254,000 claims, but new claims were lower than the expected reading of 259,000 new claims which was based on the prior week’s reading of 251,000 new jobless claims. New jobless claims have stayed below 270,000 new claims for three months for the first time since 1973.
In prepared testimony before the Financial Services Committee, Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen discussed problems facing two major banks and said the Fed’s goal was managing its regulatory stance to support financial stability.
September’s Consumer Confidence Index reading rose to 104.1, which exceeded analysts’ estimated reading of 99.3 and August’s reading of 101.1.
What’s Next
Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on construction spending and several labor-related releases including ADP Payrolls, Non-Farm Payrolls and the National Unemployment Rates. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims are set for release as usual.
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1350 E Gail Court
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$629,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,237
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775994
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move-in ready with countless upgrades including new AC, windows and can lighting! This modern single-family home boasts an open floor plan perfect for gatherings. The chef's kitchen showcases quartz countertops, shaker cabinets, and new appliances that brings both charm and modern appeal. Upstairs, a split floor plan separates the spacious secondary rooms from the primary suite. All bathrooms are upgraded with quartz countertops and chic laminate flooring. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a gazebo strung with lights, turf, and river rock. Every detail has been updated within two years! This home is ready to meet all your needs. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a truly exceptional property — it's a must-see!
10011 E Lakeview Circle
Mesa, AZ 85209
$629,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,960
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785316
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GREAT COMMUNITY VILLAGES OF EASTRIDGE! Original owner has pride in ownership of this one. Well maintained, move in ready home with a flex floor plan, cul-de-sac corner lot 4 bedrooms, upper loft, & lower-level den/office, guest suite alongside the master. Sparkling play pool & large yard, a 3-car extended garage, double RV gate. The open kitchen with an island bar, walk-in pantry flow into the family room for easy entertainment, with wood laminate floors on the lower level. Dual A/C units 2 years old. The interior has been freshly painted, & the exterior was recently painted as well. Other features include a large covered patio, backyard fire pit, 2 storage sheds, garage cabinetry with a workbench & storage shelving. Basketball sports court, parks, playgrounds, & quick access to freeways
1371 N Alison Way
Chandler, AZ 85226
$629,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,037
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6754121
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
* CHANDLER STUNNER * PREMIUM CORNER LOT * FORMER MODEL * ACROSS FROM COMMUNITY POOL * LIKE LIVING IN A RESORT * LOFT-STYLE HOME * QUARTZ COUNTERS * STAINLESS APPLIANCES * UPGRADED CABINETS * OVERSIZED SLIDER * WRAPAROUND BALCONY * UPGRADED RAILINGS * LOFT WITH VIEWS * MASTER SHOWER WITH TILE SURROUNDS * CASITA WITH HALF BATH * VIEWS OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN * GET IT BEFORE ITS GONE! *
8215 W Gardenia Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85303
$629,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,643
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6761936
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the home that checks every box! This stunning residence offers a spacious split floor plan with 3 bedrooms, a versatile den, and a large bonus room—ideal for work, play, or relaxation. You'll have plenty of parking for all your vehicles and toys, RV Parking plus a generous 3-car garage for additional storage. Inside, the open layout connects the gourmet kitchen, with premium appliances and ample counter space, to the sunlit great room and living room. Step outside to your own resort-style oasis featuring a private pool, patio, and beautifully landscaped yard—perfect for entertaining or unwinding. With owned solar, enjoy energy savings year-round!
14104 W Cottontail Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$629,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,444
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6779366
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come explore this beautiful 3 bed 2 1/2 bath cul de sac home with a massive 17, 082 sq. foot lot to build your dream yard. This home has over $100k in upgrades including iron front door, large sliding glass doors in great room, extended covered patio, quartz contertops in kitchen and bathrooms, custom backsplash in kitchen, reverse osmosis water filtration for drinking water, gas line for outdoor kitchen, upgraded kitchen cabinets, additional cabinets throughout home, GE gourmet gas cooktop, additional electrical outlets added inside and outside the home, under cabinet lighting in kitchen, surround sound, free standing tub in primary bathroom and custom tile shower with rainshower head, additional insulation in ceiling, garage and plumbing walls, custom tile, new carpet and paint.
3582 N 160th Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$629,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,829
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781415
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION!! Sits on a very unique lot located in the highly sought after Tuscany side of Pebble Creek. This lovely and well cared for home sits on a very unique lot. Featuring 2 bedrooms plus a den, fresh interior 2 tone paint, UPDATED KITCHEN AND BATHS, granite counters throughout, custom plantation shutters, newly installed soft water system, 3 car garage with epoxy floor and built in cabinets, golf course views from the back AND front with neighbors on only one side!! PLUS, BRING US AN ACCEPTABLE OFFER AND WE'LL THROW IN THE GOLF CART, recently serviced with all new batteries!! MOTIVATED SELLERS BRING US AN OFFER!
368 S 172nd Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$629,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,019
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754016
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover plenty of space and comfort in this stunning 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom Canyon Trails home. It features a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and center island, perfect for any cook. Enjoy privacy in the attached guest casita with its own living room and entrance. PRE-PAID Solar panels offer eco-friendly living and lowered electric bills for years to come. The backyard is an oasis with a private pool, huge extended covered patio, and BBQ area, all overlooking the community green belt with no neighbors behind. Plus, enjoy community amenities like a recreation room, parks, and community pool.
1145 N 293rd Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$629,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,067
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758593
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the ultimate in custom home, unencumbered by HOA fees or regulations. This stunning new build ranch-style residence boasts 2,067 square feet of living space on a serene 1.2-acre lot. The sophisticated open-concept living area features stylish paneled walls, vaulted ceilings, and an abundance of natural light and recessed illumination. A sleek white kitchen, complemented by a spacious island, provides an ideal setting for culinary pursuits. The serene master suite offers a tranquil retreat, complete with a spacious en-suite bathroom and ample closet space. Three additional bedrooms provide versatility for family, guests, or a home office. The expansive, backyard, boasts block fencing valued at over $60,000, and dual RV gates, perfect for accommodating large vehicles or horses.
6735 N 10th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$629,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,703
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763810
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Vintage meets contemporary in this delightful home in the heart of north central Phoenix. Remodeled in 2019 to add new A/C, electrical panel, and all new kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances and soft close modern cabinetry. Tons of additional upgrades added over the last 3 years, including new epoxy sewer lining, lighting/fans, roman shades, paint, baseboards, contemporary black door hardware, storage shed, block fence, side gate & front door. Abundant natural light throughout the home through efficient dual-pane windows. Huge great room with vaulted ceilings and built in fireplace. Dreamy primary suite has 2 closets including a spacious luxury walk-in. Mature fruit trees grace the private, quiet back yard, with the perfect patio for entertaining. Top rated schools.
535 S Barnwood Trail
Munds Park, AZ 86017
$629,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,824
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764043
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your private, dream home on large lot in the cool pines of Munds Park awaits your arrival! Rather year-round or seasonal, this spacious 3bed, 2 bath home has a/c, wood burning fireplace, 10x16 shed, carport, metal roof, upgraded flooring, bathrooms, ceiling fans, lighting, etc. Kitchen has plenty of cabinet and counter space, as well as an island. Enjoy relaxing on the large custom deck that was newly added on, with NO neighbor to the north! The yard is fenced in and perfect for your pets. No HOA. Come and be a part of this special, desirable Munds Park community! You will be walking distance to the well-known Pinewood Country Club, close to the national forest, lake, hiking/ biking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, park, restaurants, convenient store, and more. Munds Park is only 17 miles South of Flagstaff and a 2-hour drive from Phoenix to escape the heat. Come see your new home in our neck of the woods!
2078 E Donner Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$629,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,005
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779043
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful Corner Lot Home in the Heart of Tempe with Private Pool! No HOA! Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, perfectly situated on a spacious corner lot in the heart of Tempe. With its beautiful open floor plan and a large private pool, this home is an entertainer's dream. Inside, you'll find a modern kitchen with an inviting living area, and an enclosed laundry room for added convenience. Brand NEW AC and Brand New roof (2024). Enjoy the added benefit of no HOA! Located just minutes from ASU, major freeways, and an array of restaurants and shopping, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. BOOK a tour today.
4318 E Smokehouse Trail
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$629,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,412
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6721909
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this charming property that combines modern amenities with elegant charm. Recently updated with fresh interior paint and new flooring in parts, the neutral color scheme creates a calming atmosphere for all who enter. The kitchen is a cook's delight, featuring an inviting island and stainless steel appliances. Relax or entertain on the covered patio or enjoy privacy in the fenced backyard. This sought-after addition provides ample space for daily routines. From indoor comfort to outdoor luxuries, this property blends modern comfort with classic charm. If you seek a meticulously maintained home with exceptional attention to detail, don't miss the chance to make this beautifully updated property yours. It's the perfect plac